Hill's Pet Nutrition Plans Expansion In Shawnee County, Kansas

Hill’s Pet Nutrition and sister companies Midwestern Metals and Custom Dredge Works plan to expand operations in Shawnee County, Kansas.

According to its agreement with GO Topeka, Hill’s Pet Nutrition is expected to make a capital investment expansion of $31.4M. Midwestern Metals and Custom Dredge Works plan to invest $3.5M, with the three companies expecting to create about 50 jobs.

Hill plant director Corey Murrey said they plan to add an onsite wastewater treatment facility and new production system.

“Hill’s Pet Nutrition has long been a key contributor to the economic growth of the entire region,” said Molly Howey, president of GO Topeka. “Not only will this expansion allow for more specialized positions and new growth for the organization, it will also propel Topeka and Shawnee County’s reputation as a major contributor to the animal health field, as well as a leader in the Animal Health Corridor.”

The board of Topeka and Shawnee County’s Joint Economic Development Organization voted to approve incentive contracts between the three companies and GO Topeka, the economic arm of the Greater Topeka Partnership. Through JEDO, GO Topeka plans to provide a performance-based incentive to Hill’s of up to $341,000.

Custom Dredge Works project manager Levi Brecheisen said their expansion includes construction of five buildings that will house its sand-blasting, painting, and dredge assembly.